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The Best Scented Candles
YOUR ULTIMATE GUIDE TO THE BEST SCENTED CANDLES
Before the pandemic, you’d never hear me talking about a candle. Granted, I was barely at my house, so those things were never part of my short-lived home-decorating endeavors.
The rise of Pinterest-worthy dens and small home decor shops during the pandemic is no surprise. If we are stuck at home indefinitely, we might as well make ourselves comfortable. That includes making living areas cozier than ever — and Zoom-background friendly.
I wanted my space to be a haven, and adding a few scented candles here and there instantly created the vibe. They make any space feel more sacred. Lighting a scented candle is almost like flicking a switch that signals your brain to unwind.
Whether it’s a strong Siberian pine or a cashmere wood with a hint of pimento berry, tomato leaf, and white amber, I’ve burned through different scented candles in the span of just a few months, all in the name of curating the perfect scent and ambiance.
If you haven’t hopped on the trend yet, it’s never too late. Here are the best-scented candles in the market that will make you never want to leave the house.
WHAT ARE THE BEST SCENTED CANDLES?
Editor's Choice  Best Overall |  Best Hand-Poured Candle |  Best Local Candle |
Diptyque Baies/Berries Scented CandleDiptyque Baies/Berries Scented Candle has a long burn time that fills the room and has a charming nostalgic scent. | Le Labo Santal 26If you love the earthy scent, this hand-poured Le Labo Santal 26 is the candle for you! This woody and comforting scent lasts long and completely fills the room. | Sunday Zen Zodiac CandlesLove supporting local? The Sunday Zen Zodiac Candles offers a distinct scent for each astrological sign. It has a minimalist design and it's also affordable! |
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LET’S GO OVER EACH SCENTED CANDLE
#1: DIPTYQUE BAIES/BERRIES SCENTED CANDLE
Not all scents are created equal. If you’re looking for a luxurious fragrance that any house guest is bound to love, the Diptyque Baies/Berries is the perfect blend of unfamiliar and inviting.
Turn any indoor space into a beautiful garden with this candle’s floral notes that feature the scents of blackcurrants and Bulgarian roses.
With a 60-hour burn time in a medium-sized jar, the Baies/Berries make the perfect quarantine home accessory and the long-lasting candle you go to when you just want to stop stressing for a while.
I burned through mine quite quickly, and I loved that the wick could be easily trimmed with just your fingers. The scent profile was also strong enough to cover the aroma of food cooking from the space beside it, which I appreciated.
PROS AND CONS OF THE DIPTYQUE BAIES/BERRIES SCENTED CANDLE
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Fruity scents ✔️ Long burn time ✔️ Room-filling candle | ✖️ Pricey |
#2: LE LABO SANTAL 26
If we’re throwing luxury names in the candle biz, you simply can’t forget Le Labo. The high-end brand is known for its poured-by-hand, vegan soy wax candles that feature a unique blend of aroma combinations, fun jars, and iconic packaging with your name.
Their Santal 26 is the leathery, aromatic family member’s perfect candle for enhancing any area’s ambiance. Not everyone is a fan of citrusy scents, so if you prefer a woodsy vibe to your home, this is it.
You get notes of vanilla, amber, cocoa, sandalwood, cedar, and musk. The scent throw is immaculate, filling the space even at a distance.
I really love using this for a large, open space. The burn is even and clean, and you won’t have to worry about nasty chemicals because the recipe is free of parabens and preservatives. Did we mention the Santal 26 is Taylor Swift and Beyonce-approved, too?
PROS AND CONS OF THE LE LABO SANTAL 26
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Perfect candle for the coffee table ✔️ Lovely scents of sandalwood, amber, cocoa, vanilla ✔️ Woody notes for a cozy space ✔️ Great scent throw ✔️ Vegan soy recipe | ✖️ Expensive ✖️ Tunneling issues |
#3: SUNDAY ZEN ZODIAC CANDLES
Astrology is an ancient practice that has become the craze in recent years—so much so that local brand Sunday Zen has created an entire candle line inspired by the 12 zodiac signs.
Whether you’re a feisty Aries or a practical Virgo, there’s a scent tailored to your personality and tastes.
Some examples of their unique best-selling candle blends are bubbly melon for Sagittarius, honeysuckle, davana for Taurus, vanilla, sandalwood for Cancer, and so many more cozy scents.
The affordable candles of Sunday Zen Zodiac are also made of local ingredients. Each is poured by hand into a beautiful minimalistic black jar that can be placed in almost any space in your home to make it more comfortable and zen instantly.
Made with 100% soy wax, the burn is clean so as not to promote any harmful chemicals.
The wooden wick also ensures that each burn of the candle is even. As for scent throw, the aroma can definitely penetrate a space quite quickly without being too harsh.
PROS AND CONS OF THE SUNDAY ZEN ZODIAC
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Unique blend of smells ✔️ Local brand made of 100% soy wax ✔️ Personalized scents ✔️ Clean, even burn that lasts 40 hours | ✖️ Limited sizes |
#4: JO MALONE LIME BASIL & MANDARIN CANDLE
Fragrance aficionados, rejoice. Jo Malone’s signature aroma, Lime Basil and Mandarin, also exists in candle form in all its unique, spicy scents.
Do note that we all process scents differently, so a strong one for you might not be as strong for someone else.
Since Jo Malone candles are known to be crazy expensive, I was glad that this one was worth the price — I hadn’t even lit the candle yet, and it already filled up the space.
I will say it’s not the best aroma for an “untrained nose,” but those with a wider fragrance palette will appreciate the top notes of amberwood and basil. Gift it to a candle-loving friend and watch their eyes light up!
PROS AND CONS OF THE JO MALONE LIME BASIL & MANDARIN
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Unique citrus scents ✔️ Incredibly fragrant with an impressive scent throw ✔️ Great year-round home smell | ✖️ Candle burns can be uneven ✖️ Expensive price |
#5: BATH & BODY WORKS WHITE BARN VANILLA BEAN 3-WICK CANDLE
If you hate overwhelming fragrant notes, you might want to go for this tried-and-tested to fill your space.
Others say it’s underwhelming. We say it’s ideal for giving any living space a subtle note that won’t assault the senses.
Bath & Body Works is my intro to the world of fragrances, including beautiful-smelling lotions, colognes, shower gels, you name it.
So, suffice it to say that the Vanilla Bean is a great entry point if you want to really get into the world of scented candles. Having a soy wax blend and three wicks makes it less likely to tunnel as well.
PROS AND CONS OF THE BATH & BODY WORKS WHITE BARN VANILLA 3-WICK CANDLE
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Light nostalgic scent, ideal home fragrance ✔️ Larger scent radius ✔️ Less likely to tunnel, burns evenly ✔️ Soy wax blend | ✖️ Can be too one-note |
#6: BOY SMELLS KUSH SCENTED CANDLE
I’ve always been drawn to candles that offer a unique olfactory experience, and Boy Smells’ Kush Scented Candle stands out.
When you first light it up, you’re hit with a fresh burst of green notes immediately grabbing your attention.
As it burns, the floral hints blend in, and you start to notice hints of suede and musk, making the smell more complex as time passes.
I love that this candle is made from a mix of coconut wax and beeswax, giving it a burn time of around 50 to 60 hours. That means I can enjoy its lovely aroma over and over again.
When you receive this candle and unwrap it from its sleek packaging, you’ll be immediately captivated by its presentation—a glossy black tumbler housing that promises an aromatic journey.
PROS AND CONS OF THE BOY SMELLS KUSH SCENTED CANDLE
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Multi-layered scent ✔️ 50-hour burn time ✔️ Sleek packaging | ✖️ Uneven burn issue |
#7: Hedgerow – Join Luxury Scented Soy Wax + Essential Oil Candle
The Hedgerow luxury soy wax and essential oil candle effortlessly re-creates the serenity of a spa experience with its indulgent blend of neroli flower, rose geranium, and a subtle basil scent.
The feminine, floral notes offer light yet captivating scents reminiscent of Spring gardens, filling an entire living room without overwhelming.
Unlike many candles that rely on strong perfumes or patchouli, Hedgerow’s natural composition focuses on fresh, herbaceous tones that make it one of the best scented candles for relaxation or as a great gift.
Handcrafted in small batches at Join’s Cornish studio, this great candle is made with eco-friendly, vegan, and cruelty-free ingredients, ensuring a clean burn with less soot.
Its first burn unlocks the full potential of its essential oil blend, while the metal lid adds a touch of sophistication, making it a functional yet stylish piece of home decor.
Safe for both skin and pets, it’s a versatile option for any home and is designed to hold scent beautifully across multiple uses.
The Hedgerow candle is thoughtfully packaged with the option to add a personalized message, making it ideal for birthdays, weddings, or simply as a treat for oneself.
While it avoids incense-like or overpowering scent notes, its floral and herbaceous tones, including a nod to holy basil, make it a delightful choice for fans of light, fresh scent notes.
Combining sustainability, elegance, and luxury, this candle easily earns its place among anyone’s favorite candles.
PROS AND CONS OF THE Hedgerow – Join Luxury Scented Soy Wax + Essential Oil Candle
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Uses environmentally conscious ingredients ✔️ Vegan and cruelty-free ✔️ Recyclable glass jar | ✖️ Soft profile |
#8: H&M SCENTED CANDLE
The H&M scented candle is an affordable yet stylish addition to your space, bringing sophistication to your own home without breaking the bank.
With its elegant design and thoughtfully curated notes, this candle creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.
It balances the middle notes of florals and woods, delivering a subtle yet distinctive aroma that smells refined and not overly artificial, unlike some candles that rely on heavy perfumes.
Crafted with a cotton wick, this candle ensures a cleaner burn, enhancing the candle’s ability to distribute its smell evenly throughout the room.
Its smell lingers without overpowering, making it one of the best scented candles for those who enjoy the light and natural smell.
Whether you’re relaxing or entertaining, the H&M candle offers a cozy ambiance that blends seamlessly into your lifestyle and home decor.
While it’s not a luxury product, its quality and attention to detail make it a contender among the best scented options in its price range.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly candle with pleasing notes, it is a practical and stylish home decor for elevating your space.
PROS AND CONS OF THE H&M SCENTED CANDLE
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Affordable elegance ✔️ Subtle notes ✔️ Clean burn ✔️ Perfect as home decor | ✖️ Mild notes may not be enough for some |
#9: VOLUSPA PANJORE LYCHEE CANDLE
Enjoying a candle’s cozy glow and delightful smell is one of life’s simple joys, and the Voluspa Panjore Lychee Luxe Jar Candle offers an experience like no other.
The beautiful glass jar with intricate Japonica designs is like a piece of art that adds elegance to any room. But there’s more to this candle than its looks.
It is made in the USA and boasts a special coconut wax blend for a clean, even burn. It lasts up to an incredible 140 hours, making it one of the longest-burning candles.
The notes are equally captivating, with notes of Panjore lychee, cassis, and juicy Asian pear. So, you’ll be whisked away to a tropical paradise with citrusy freshness and sweet undertones that linger long after the candle is out.
PROS AND CONS OF THE VOLUSPA PANJORE LYCHEE CANDLE
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ 140-hour burn time ✔️ Tropical ambiance ✔️ Stunning glass vessel | ✖️ High-priced |
#10: MOLTON BROWN ORANGE AND BERGAMOT SIGNATURE SCENTED CANDLE
The Molton Brown Orange & Bergamot Scented Signature Candle is truly special. When you light it, you’re instantly transported to a sunny citrus grove, which feels refreshing and uplifting.
But what’s great about this candle is its versatility. Unlike most candles that are only for certain seasons, this one works all year round.
Its blend of orange blossom, mandarin, and neroli oil makes it fresh and invigorating without being too strong, perfect for any occasion.
Molton Brown has also outdone itself with the design of this candle. It’s elegant modern, and commands attention wherever it’s placed.
PROS AND CONS OF THE MOLTON BROWN ORANGE AND BERGAMOT SIGNATURE SCENTED CANDLE
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔️ Versatile and sophisticated scent ✔️ Long-lasting burn ✔️ Sophisticated design | ✖️ High-priced |
WHICH SCENTED CANDLES ARE BEST?
Some factors contributing to the best-scented candles’ quality include ingredients, smell quality, burn time, consistency, and aesthetics. Here’s a breakdown:
QUALITY OF INGREDIENTS
Look for natural ingredients such as soy wax, beeswax, or coconut wax. These materials burn cleanly and evenly, reducing soot and maximizing scent throw.
FRAGRANCE
The quality and complexity of the smell are crucial. Premium-scented candles often use essential or high-quality oils to create a more authentic and long-lasting smell experience.
BURN TIME
Longer burn times indicate a higher quality candle, meaning the wax is denser and burns slower. This also ensures that you get the most out of your candle.
CONSISTENCY
Consistent scent throw throughout the candle’s life is a mark of quality. The smell should fill the room evenly without being overpowering or weak.
AESTHETICS
While not directly related to smell, the appearance of the candle can enhance the overall experience. High-quality candles often come in elegant containers and have aesthetically pleasing designs.
WHAT ARE THE MOST POPULAR SMELLS FOR CANDLES?
Popular candle fragrances often reflect seasonal trends, personal preferences, and cultural influences. Some perennial favorites include:
- Vanilla: A classic scent appreciated for its warm, comforting aroma.
- Lavender: Known for its calming scent and relaxing properties, it is often used for aromatherapy.
- Bright Citrus: Refreshing scents like lemon, orange blossom, grapefruit, and black tea are popular for their invigorating qualities.
- Mint: Cinnamon, black tea leaves, tonka bean, black pepper, and pink pepper are minty delight options.
- Fresh Linen: Mimicking the clean, crisp scent of freshly laundered clothes.
- Woodsy Scents: Sandalwood, cedar wood, aromatic pine, patchouli, and violet leaf evoke the same feeling and warmth as the outdoors.
- Floral Scents: Rose, jasmine, and lilac are among the floral scents commonly found in candles, offering a romantic and elegant ambiance.
- Seasonal Scents: Cinnamon and pumpkin spice are popular in fall and winter candles, while tropical fruits and florals are favorites in spring and summer.
WHICH SCENTED CANDLES LAST THE LONGEST?
Generally, candles made with high-quality ingredients and essential oils tend to offer a longer-lasting scent.
Soy candles are often touted for their longer burn times than paraffin candles. Also, candles with multiple wicks or larger surface areas tend to release more fragrance and can provide a longer-lasting scent experience.
When shopping for candles that offer long-lasting fragrance, look for those labeled with “high fragrance concentration” or “long burn time.” Proper candle care, such as trimming the wick and burning the candle for the recommended time, can help maximize scent longevity.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the most calming candle scent?
The most calming candle scent can vary based on personal preferences, but lavender is widely regarded as one of the most soothing options. Known for its relaxing and stress-relieving properties, lavender is a go-to for promoting calmness and better sleep.
Other calming smells include:
- Chamomile: Gentle and soothing, perfect for reducing tension.
- Vanilla: Warm and comforting, creating a cozy atmosphere.
- Sandalwood: Earthy and grounding, excellent for meditation or unwinding.
- Eucalyptus: Refreshing yet calming, ideal for clearing the mind.
- Rose: Soft and floral, promoting a sense of peace and emotional balance.
Each smell offers unique benefits, so choosing the most calming one depends on the ambiance and mood you wish to create.
Are Yankee Candles really better?
For their average price, some may question whether Yankee Candles really are worth it. It depends on who you ask: those who value the art of candlemaking will tell you that the longevity and quality of materials used justify the price tag. But for some, it doesn’t really make a difference and they’ll tell you to go for a dupe instead.
Among the advantages of Yankee Candles named by its enthusiasts are a longer burn, better wick quality, a variety of scents, no synthetic fragrances, and a wide scent radius. Each one is created and maintained to last longer than your usual candles.
Which candle fragrance is most popular?
The most popular candle fragrance varies based on personal preferences and trends, but classic scents like lavender remain a top choice for their calming and versatile appeal.
Other beloved options include earthy and grounding palo santo, herbaceous tomato vine, and spicy blends featuring pink pepper or black pepper. These fragrances, especially the palo santo, tomato vine, and tomato leaf, are often considered among the best scented candles due to their ability to create unique and inviting atmospheres in any home.
Floral and woodsy combinations, such as patchouli and incense, are also highly sought after, offering a sophisticated touch that is rich and layered. On the flip side, bold scents like these might not suit those who prefer lighter, subtler fragrances, making fresh or citrus-forward candles a better option. It makes sense that these versatile scent profiles continue to dominate the market for the best scented options.
Is soy wax a good ingredient for scented candles?
If you’re keen on making the best scented candles, soy wax is an excellent ingredient to use because it burns cleanly with minimal soot, is eco-friendly and biodegradable, and has a longer burn time compared to other waxes.
It holds fragrance well, ensuring an even and lasting scent, and is a safer, non-toxic option for homes. While it can be slightly more expensive and softer than paraffin wax, its environmental benefits and high-quality performance make it a popular choice for candle enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Soy wax, three-wick, and beeswax — no matter who you are or what your needs may be, there’s sure to be a scented candle for you. Much like perfumes and fragrances, scented candles come in different mixtures of aromas that range from unique to familiar to nostalgic.
If you’re looking for gift ideas or just one to spruce up your room, we hope this guide has helped you!
Editor’s Choice
DIPTYQUE BAIES/BERRIES SCENTED CANDLE
Candles often serve multiple functions: to make a room smell and look good. The French brand Diptyque makes the best candles that are perfect both visually and sensually.
Spruce up your living area with their Baies scented candle, an undisputed bestseller, as their website calls it. It’s no surprise that a quick Google search would show you this exact Diptyque candle on more than one “best candles” list.
I’m neither a candle expert nor a fan of candles with an acquired scent. If you’re like me and prefer something that makes a solid first impression, then this is your pick.
We don’t know if the light berry fragrance or the familiar rose notes make this one a hit, but it’s definitely a group favorite. It’s best for common areas where everyone can enjoy it.
Joey is an AB Psychology graduate of the University of St. La Salle – Bacolod. Her life’s passions include writing, film, and spending hours on end binge-watching fashion vloggers on Youtube.
